Dear Coach,

Lately, I’ve been struggling with work-life balance. I’m a new parent and until now, I haven’t really had any issues working excess hours at work.

Thankfully, we can afford a nanny, but she has to go home, too. As new parents, my partner (who also works) and I are both struggling to balance our office workload with our home life. I feel overwhelmed with the feeling that I need to get home to relieve the nanny, but still have so much work to complete for the day.

Is work-life balance truly possible for us? What are your thoughts and suggestions?

Yours truly,

Stressed-Out Parent

Dear Stressed-Out Parent,

Many envision work-life balance as an equal split of time and energy. While ideal, is it realistic?

What if we viewed balance as something that unfolds over a lifetime? Reflecting on my experiences, perfect balance wasn’t feasible in every phase. I recall studying for the CPA exam after work hours while my sister-in-law cared for our firstborn. It was tough, but over time, as the children grew and priorities changed, the imbalance shifted and harmony emerged. Though stressful, the journey also brought peace and joy.

Excellence often brings stress. Viewing balance as a long-term goal helps manage ups and downs. To juggle work and family, set boundaries, prioritize tasks, and communicate with your employer. Be kind to yourself and focus on the bigger picture.

Coach Rekha

ACTION STEPS

• Reflect and Reevaluate Priorities: Identify your current priorities and allocate time accordingly. Regularly reassess and adjust to maintain balance over time.
• Communicate and Seek Support: Discuss your challenges with family and your employer to seek support or flexible arrangements. Utilize resources like nannies, family, or friends to share responsibilities and ease your burden.
• Practice Self-Compassion: Understand that achieving perfect balance at every moment is unrealistic; it’s about long-term harmony. Be kind to yourself throughout the journey.

Client Experience

At 32, Alice worked as a mortgage loan processor for a bank. Facing the challenges of a demanding job and new parenthood, she successfully negotiated a flexible work arrangement with her employer.

This arrangement allowed her to leave work at a pre-agreed time to relieve her nanny and complete any critical tasks after her newborn slept. Her manager appreciated her dedication to completing her work while balancing her new responsibilities.

The approach reduced stress and provided Alice more time with her child. Alice and her boss continue to monitor the arrangement.

Personal Reflection

When work-life balance pressures make me anxious, I often spiral into unproductive thoughts worrying about unfinished tasks or feeling guilty for taking breaks. I have learned that talking to someone I trust, like a mentor or friend, helps release tension, clarify priorities, and ease anxiety. In these moments, I make a conscious effort to reach out, knowing their perspective can help me regain balance. Coach Rekha

 Have you faced a similar challenge? 

I would love to hear your feedback in the comments box below!

Disclaimer: While I am a trained coach and adhere to the International Coaching Federation (ICF) guidelines, please note that the advice shared here is provided in a non-coaching context. The insights and suggestions are based on my experience and are intended to offer general guidance. Client stories are shared to illustrate practices others have implemented. It’s important to tailor your approach to suit your unique circumstances, as every individual’s situation is distinct. For personalized coaching support and to explore these topics more deeply, consider engaging in a formal coaching session.

Good Luck and Stay Ready, My Friends.